Moving into a New Construction Home: What to Expect After Closing

10 October 2025

So, you finally did it! After months of searching, planning, and signing endless paperwork, you’re officially the proud owner of a brand-new construction home. Congratulations! But wait—what happens now?

Moving into a new construction home comes with its own set of unique challenges and surprises. From final walkthroughs to warranty claims, the journey isn’t quite over once you get the keys. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect after closing so you can settle in with confidence.

1. The Final Walkthrough After Closing

If you had a pre-closing walkthrough, you probably checked for imperfections and made a list of anything that needed fixing. However, don’t be surprised if new issues pop up after you move in.

What to Look For:

- Minor cosmetic flaws – Paint touch-ups, scuff marks, or uneven finishes.
- Plumbing and HVAC issues – Water pressure inconsistencies or airflow problems.
- Appliance testing – Ensure all included appliances work properly.
- Doors and windows – Check for smooth operation and proper sealing.

Even though you’ve closed, your builder may still be responsible for fixing certain defects. Keep a list of anything you notice and reach out to them as needed.

2. Dealing With Post-Move-In Settling

New homes settle, and that’s completely normal. This means materials like wood and drywall may shift as they adjust to temperature and humidity changes.

Common Signs of Settling:

- Small cracks in walls or ceilings
- Slightly sticking doors
- Nail pops (small bumps in drywall)

Don’t panic—these aren’t structural issues! Many builders offer a warranty period where they’ll come back and address settling-related problems at no cost.

3. Managing Builder Warranties

Most new construction homes come with warranties covering different aspects of the home for a specific period. Typically, these warranties break down as follows:

✅ 1-Year Warranty: Covers materials and workmanship (paint, flooring, cabinets).
✅ 2-Year Warranty: Covers major systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
✅ 10-Year Structural Warranty: Covers foundation and structural integrity.

Make sure you understand your warranty terms and report any issues promptly. If something goes wrong, your builder should take care of it—but only if you notify them within the warranty period.

4. Setting Up Utilities and Services

Unlike an existing home, a new construction property may not have any utilities set up. You might need to initiate services from scratch.

Key Utilities to Set Up Right Away:

- Electricity and Gas – Contact your local providers.
- Water and Sewer – Verify if this is handled by your city or a private company.
- Internet and Cable – Some new neighborhoods have specific service providers.
- Trash Collection – Check if you need to register with your local waste management service.

Plan ahead to avoid delays, especially if you’re working from home or have kids who need internet access.

5. Landscaping and Exterior Adjustments

Many builders provide only the basics when it comes to landscaping. You might have a freshly laid lawn, but don’t expect a lush garden or fully-grown trees.

What You Might Need to Handle Yourself:

- Additional sod or grass seeding
- Installing sprinkler systems
- Planting trees, bushes, or flowers
- Adding fencing, patios, or decks

Before making big changes, check your neighborhood’s HOA (if applicable) for any landscaping rules or restrictions.

6. Expect Construction Noise and Traffic

If you’re moving into a newly built neighborhood, expect to hear construction noises for a while. Builders often complete homes in phases, meaning there may be months—or even years—of ongoing work.

How to Deal With It:

- Use white noise machines to block out early morning hammering.
- Communicate with the builder to know their work schedules.
- Be patient—your dream neighborhood is still in the making!

The good news? The value of homes in under-construction communities often appreciates as the area develops.

7. Testing and Adjusting Your Home’s Features

A modern new construction home often comes with smart features, advanced security systems, and energy-efficient appliances. But that doesn’t mean everything will function perfectly right away.

Things to Check:

🔹 Smart thermostats – Set your preferences and connect to Wi-Fi.
🔹 Security systems – Activate alarms and update passcodes.
🔹 Lighting – If your home has smart lighting, test all functions.
🔹 HVAC – Adjust settings for the best comfort.

Take the time to test out everything and customize your home to fit your needs.

8. Registering Warranties for Appliances and Systems

Your home likely came with brand-new appliances, but don’t forget to register their warranties. This ensures that if anything fails prematurely, you can get repairs or replacements covered.

What to Register:

- Kitchen appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher)
- HVAC systems
- Water heater
- Washer and dryer

Most manufacturers allow online registration, and it only takes a few minutes!

9. Understanding Your Home’s Maintenance Schedule

Congrats, you own a home—but that also means maintenance is now your responsibility. New construction homes require some care to keep them in top condition.

Must-Do Maintenance Tasks:

✅ Change HVAC filters every 1-3 months.
✅ Flush your water heater once a year.
✅ Check for caulking gaps around windows and doors.
✅ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
✅ Clean out gutters to prevent drainage issues.

Sticking to a schedule prevents unexpected repairs down the road.

10. Building a Sense of Community

One of the coolest things about a new neighborhood? Everyone is new! You’re not moving into an established area where relationships are already formed—you have the chance to build a community from the ground up.

Ways to Connect With Neighbors:

- Attend HOA or community meetings.
- Join local Facebook groups or apps like Nextdoor.
- Host a small housewarming event.
- Introduce yourself with a friendly wave and chat!

Building relationships early can make your new home feel even more welcoming.

11. Personalizing and Decorating Your New Home

A new construction home often feels like a blank canvas. While this is exciting, it can also feel a little sterile at first. Adding personal touches will make it feel truly yours.

Simple Ways to Add Character:

🏡 Paint an accent wall with a pop of color.
🖼️ Hang artwork or family photos.
🛋️ Incorporate cozy furniture and warm lighting.
🌱 Add greenery with indoor plants.

Customizing your space will make it feel like home in no time.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new construction home comes with a learning curve, but it’s all part of the journey. While there might be some kinks to work out, the beauty of a brand-new home is that you are its first owner. No outdated fixtures, no hidden surprises—just a fresh start in a brand-new space.

By staying proactive, keeping in touch with your builder, and embracing the excitement of personalizing your home, you’ll be settling in smoothly before you know it. Happy moving!